Monkeypox

Please see below a press release from the UK Health Security Agency on 22 March 2023:

People still eligible for mpox vaccine urged to come forward

A sustained reduction in mpox (monkeypox) case numbers across England and the success of vaccination in helping to control the outbreak means the vaccination programme is no longer needed as an outbreak control measure and can now be wound down. Anyone eligible for  mpox vaccination is urged to come forward for the vaccine in the coming months to protect themselves before the summer.

First doses remain available for gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men (GBMSM) at highest risk from mpox until 16 June with second doses available until the end of July.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) will continue to closely monitor case numbers and will retain the ability to stand up the vaccination programme if the risk of infection rises significantly.

Mpox cases have fallen across the UK from a high of 350 per week in July 2022 to just 6 new cases so far from the start of 2023. Three people acquired mpox in the UK and 3 were returning travellers.

Vaccination has played a crucial role in protecting people and reducing case numbers. People who are eligible but have not yet received 2 doses of the vaccine are being encouraged to come forward and book their first dose by 16 June 2023 and be booked in for their second dose by the end of July 2023.

Everyone at highest risk from mpox is eligible for 2 doses of the vaccine; UKHSA data has shown that one dose of the vaccine offers 78% protection against the virus from 14 days after receiving it, and the second dose aims to provides longer term protection.

Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, Deputy Director, Public Health Programmes at UKHSA, said:

While mpox infection is mild for many, it can cause severe symptoms for some so it's important people remain alert to the risks. Vaccination is key to reducing the severity of symptoms and preventing further transmission. Uptake of first doses has been strong but only around a third of those who have received their first dose have had their second dose so far.

I would urge everyone that's eligible to come forward for both doses so they have maximum long lasting protection.

I'd like to thank the NHS, public health professionals and third sector organisations, in particular their frontline staff, who sprang into action and worked hard to bring down mpox cases significantly. UKHSA will monitor cases of mpox very closely and will re-establish the vaccination programme if we need to.

For further information see UKHSA

We do not currently provide a walk-in services please telephone the Sexual Health service to make an appointment:

County Durham Central Booking Line (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) 0191 372 8700

Darlington Memorial Hospital GUM: 01325 743 203